City Slang

Meadow Brook finally adopts less confusing name

We got a press release about this important occurrence today. I don't know why they can't just say that the place is getting renamed instead of "rebranded," or why anyone thinks that using corporate speak outside of the board room is ever a good idea. The simple use of the term "rebrand" probably means that outside consultants were paid ample sums in order to assist with a new logo, as well as that exciting new name.

Meadow Brook Music Festival is now Meadow Brook Amphitheatre. It might be a touch more difficult to spell, but at least the new name is less confusing. The venue is a venue, after all, not a music festival.

As we all know, the spot is located at 3554 Walton Boulevard in Rochester Hills, right there on the campus of Oakland University. What you might not know is that the place first opened in 1964, and "was the summer residence of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for its first four seasons; the venue came under the management of Palace Sports and Entertainment in 1994" (thanks, Wikipedia)."

The full press release follows:

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Palace Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) and Oakland University today announced Meadow Brook Music Festival has been rebranded and will now be known as Meadow Brook Amphitheatre.

“We are pleased to announce the rebranding of Meadow Brook Amphitheatre which forms a dynamic trio of destinations for summer concert entertainment,” said Dennis Mannion, President and CEO of PS&E. “The venue has great history and has played host to some of the best emerging superstar talent. This rebrand further defines its true identity as one of the premier, intimate venues in the region.”

Meadow Brook’s traditional and eclectic programming has flourished over the years and recently it has become a destination for music’s biggest emerging stars. Concerts of all genres highlight and showcase the venue’s unique ambiance and intimate setting, which is located on the campus of Oakland University. Last summer’s schedule was highlighted by iconic singer-songwriter Tony Bennett and world-wide pop superstar Lady Gaga, legendary rock vocalist Robert Plant, rock star Lenny Kravitz, rock and jam band O.A.R. and comedian Jim Gaffigan. Emerging stars that entertained to sold out crowds included Irish singer and songwriter Hozier, violinist Lindsey Stirling and musical duo Twenty One Pilots, who bring their “EMØTIØNAL RØADSHØW” tour this summer to DTE Energy Music Theatre on June 3.

“Meadow Brook Amphitheatre is the perfect boutique setting for emerging talent and artists seeking a venue that provides a close personal feel for fans,” said Adam Schneider, Senior Vice President of Entertainment for PS&E. “The acoustics, setting and size make Meadow Brook a great location for performers to strengthen their brand and build for larger engagements at DTE Energy Music Theatre and The Palace.”

The first of the confirmed artists for the 2016 summer concert season at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre are British rock band The 1975 on May 21 and Canadian rocker Bryan Adams on July 23, which are both currently on sale, and Grammy Award winner Ray LaMontagne on July 26, which goes on sale March 4.

PS&E assumed management, marketing and booking of the 7,700-capacity amphitheatre in 1994 and recently renewed a 10-year operational and management agreement with Oakland University.

Partnering with Oakland, PS&E has been the exclusive operator of Meadow Brook Amphitheatre for over 20 years and has invested millions of dollars into the venue’s infrastructure, improving existing buildings and stage, adding more pavilion seats, and building a new concessions facility. Other improvements have been made to the sound and acoustic system along with the addition of an LED electronic marquee alongside Walton Avenue on the campus.

“We are pleased to continue our partnership with Palace Sports & Entertainment,“ said George W. Hynd, President of Oakland University. “The Palace has proven to be a national leader in the entertainment industry, attracting a diverse array of top emerging acts while managing and maintaining Meadow Brook to the highest standard as a best-in-class amphitheatre. The partnership has been an outstanding benefit to our university and I look forward to the continued success of our relationship.”

Signs at the amphitheatre will be changed to reflect the new name along with the implementation of new logo and design templates for advertising and marketing support materials.

All shows performed at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre are part of the Belle Tire Concert Series.